Winter storm starting Tuesday to unload up to 40cm of snow on Ottawa: Environment Canada

J.F. Messier clears snow from his neighbours driveway in Ottawa on Wednesday January 23, 2019.

THE CANADIAN PRESS/Adrian Wyld

A Colorado low crossing southern Ontario on Tuesday and Wednesday is expected to unload 30 to 40 centimetres of snow on the city of Ottawa over those two days, according to Environment Canada.

The national weather agency has issued a winter storm warning for the national capital. The warning also advises of winds gusting up to 60 kilometres per hour that “may cause near zero visibility in blowing snow.”

The storm could also cause localized power outages, Environment Canada added.

Ahead of the significant snowfall expected to begin Tuesday, municipal road crews are “preparing to plow and salt roads and sidewalks,” the City of Ottawa said in a statement on Monday afternoon.

“Residents are asked to exercise caution if driving, cycling or walking and to allow extra time for their commutes,” the statement said. “Drivers are also reminded to be patient and keep a safe distance behind working snow plows.”

The city is also asking drivers to refrain from parking on the street during the snowfall, if possible, to facilitate snow removal operations.